If you’re considering a career in technology, you’ve likely come across roles like “Network Engineer” and “Infrastructure Engineer.” Both are critical to ensuring organisations remain connected and operational, but they differ in scope and focus. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences, what these roles entail, and why veterans transitioning into tech through organisations like TechVets may find these careers a great fit.
Network Engineer vs Infrastructure Engineer: What’s the Difference?
At first glance, these roles might seem similar, but there are key distinctions.
Network Engineer:
A network engineer focuses on designing, implementing, and managing an organisation’s day-to-day computer networks. This includes Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), and other systems that facilitate communication between devices. Their primary goal is to ensure that data flows smoothly and securely.
Key Responsibilities:
- Designing and configuring networks
- Troubleshooting network issues
- Ensuring network security (e.g. firewalls, routers)
- Monitoring performance and scalability
Infrastructure Engineer:
An infrastructure engineer takes a broader approach, working with the physical and virtual systems that support an organisation’s entire IT infrastructure, including servers, storage, and hardware. They are responsible for maintaining the underlying systems that support both networking and computing.
Key Responsibilities:
- Installing and managing servers and hardware
- Maintaining virtual environments like VMware or Hyper-V
- Ensuring hardware compatibility
- Overseeing cloud infrastructure and network security on physical systems
Why Pursue a Career in Network or Infrastructure Engineering?
For veterans, transitioning into these roles offers an exciting opportunity to apply problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills gained in the military to a rapidly growing field. TechVets helps veterans retrain and provides support through resources, mentorship, and hands-on training, making it easier to transition into network or infrastructure engineering.
Network engineering, in particular, offers a rewarding career with solid financial prospects. In the UK, network engineers earn an average of £45,000 per year, and experienced professionals can command even higher salaries. Additionally, certifications like Cisco’s CCNA or CompTIA Network+ can open doors to more senior roles, such as Network Architect or Chief Information Officer (CIO).
The Day-to-Day of a Network Engineer
Network engineers are responsible for keeping systems operational, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring that network performance meets organisational goals. Whether diagnosing bottlenecks, implementing security measures, or collaborating with other IT teams, their work is both technical and collaborative.
Being able to work under pressure and solve problems quickly is key, as network issues often require immediate attention. Veterans transitioning from high-pressure environments will find their skills well-suited to the fast-paced nature of network engineering.
Future Prospects for Network Engineers
The future looks bright for network engineers, with the demand for skilled professionals set to increase as more businesses rely on cloud computing, mobile technology, and IoT devices. Emerging technologies like 5G, edge computing, and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) are transforming the industry, and engineers who stay up-to-date with these trends will be highly sought after.
A Great Fit for Veterans
Network and infrastructure engineering offer diverse career paths, and for veterans, many of the skills developed during military service—such as problem-solving, leadership, and adaptability—are directly transferable to these roles. TechVets provides a bridge to help veterans acquire the necessary technical skills and certifications, offering a clear route to employment in a high-demand sector.
In addition to job security, these roles also offer the chance to specialise in areas such as network security, cloud infrastructure, or wireless communications, giving veterans plenty of opportunities to tailor their career based on their interests.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to become a network engineer or an infrastructure engineer, both roles offer exciting career prospects in the fast-evolving tech world. With the right training and certifications, veterans can find meaningful, financially rewarding careers. TechVets provides the support and resources needed to make this transition smoother, ensuring that veterans can thrive in their new careers.
If you’re a veteran looking to transition into tech, network engineering could be your perfect fit—combining the skills you’ve honed in the military with the growing opportunities in the digital world. Become a member of techvets and explore our courses and training opportunities.
